Understanding Hexane: The Key to Extracting Oil and Grease from Wastewater

What reagent is commonly used to extract oil and grease from a wastewater sample?

• A. Acetone
• B. Hexane
• C. Benzene
• D. Chloroform

Answer: (B)

Hexane is commonly utilized as a reagent to extract oil and grease from a wastewater sample due to its non-polar properties, which make it effective in solubilizing hydrophobic compounds such as oils and greases. The extraction process typically involves adding hexane to the wastewater sample, allowing the oil and grease to dissolve in the hexane phase. Following this, the hexane can be separated from the aqueous phase, leaving behind the water while retaining the extracted impurities. Hexane's low boiling point also facilitates easy recovery and handling after extraction. Its volatility means it can be evaporated off, allowing the oil and grease to be analyzed without contamination from the solvent itself. This makes hexane a preferred choice in laboratory settings for such analyses, aligning with methodologies established in Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. Other reagents mentioned, while having their own applications, do not match hexane's efficiency and practicality in this specific task.

When it comes to analyzing wastewater, particularly for the pesky presence of oil and grease, the right choice of reagent is crucial. Have you ever wondered what makes hexane stand out among the crowd? Let’s break it down.